What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Talk to the doctor about your medications. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to one week before the procedure.

Other things to keep in mind before the procedure:

Arrange for a ride home from the hospital.

In most cases, you will need to avoid eating and drinking for 6-8 hours before the procedure. Ask your doctor when you should stop eating and drinking.

Anesthesia

The procedure is done under
general
or
spinal anesthesia
. You will be asleep or sedated. Anesthesia will block any pain during the surgery.

Description of Procedure

You will be prepared for surgery. The genital area will be shaved and sterilized.

Once you are asleep, the doctor will make a small incision in the groin area or in the scrotum. The testicle is pulled up from the scrotal sac. The cord that connects the testicle to the scrotum is clamped and sutured. The testicle is removed. Absorbable stitches will be used to close all incision areas.

A prosthetic testicle is sometimes placed into the scrotum. This can be done at the time of the surgery or at a later date.

How Long Will It Take?

About one hour per testicle

How Much Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications.

Post-procedure Care

At the Care Center

The staff may provide the following care to make you more comfortable and help your recovery:

Pain medications and IV fluids

Ice pack and other scrotal support

You will be able to leave when the anesthesia has worn off and you can walk.

During your stay, the hospital staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection such as:

Washing their hands

Wearing gloves or masks

Keeping your incisions covered

There are also steps you can take to reduce your chances of infection such as:

Washing your hands often and reminding visitors and healthcare providers to do the same

Reminding your healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks

Not allowing others to touch your incisions

At Home

When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

Walking and light activity is important. Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a few weeks.

Swelling and soreness is normal. Use ice packs as advised. Your doctor may recommend that you wear snug-fitting underwear and a jock strap for the first few days.

Follow incision care instructions to avoid infection.

Call Your Doctor

It is important to monitor your recovery. Alert your doctor to any problems. If any of the following occur, call your doctor:

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.